Poll shows more Italians accept animal research

Polling company, Ipsos, have surveyed 1,000 Italiansto gauge public opinion on the issue of animals inresearch. Asked cold, they found that equal numbers of people thought it was acceptable (49% each side).While this may not equal the levels in the UK, it is a considerable improvement from the 66% of people whofound in unacceptable in the 2011 poll (also by Ipsos).

However, when those surveyed were informed about the laws surrounding animal research – the regulationsthat aim to minimise suffering and replace the use of animals wherever possible – the proportion consideringanimal research acceptable rose to 57% (to 39% against). This offers hope that by providing more informationand being more open about the work they do, researchers in Italy can swing more of the public to supportingthe careful use of animals in research.

The result of this friction has been greater public interest in the issue and – seemingly – a betterunderstanding of the issues. The percentage of people who believe animal research can be replaced byalternative methods dropped from 63% to 54%, and should fall further as people understand that EU law bansthe use of animals where alternative methods exist. The proportion of the public who believe animal researchis “necessary for the advancement of medicine” rose from 51% to 61%. The polls provide as brief snapshot ofthe views of the Italian public. While they definitely offer hope of better times in the future it is important thatthey do not become complacent.